If you’re looking to elevate your nacho game, making Loaded Nachos on a Blackstone Griddle is the way to go. Using a Blackstone Griddle allows for even cooking and gives your nachos that perfect, crispy texture. You’ll find that preparing your nachos this way not only enhances the flavor but also makes the whole cooking process quicker and more enjoyable.
Start by cooking your choice of meat—beef, chicken, or even a mix—right on the griddle. Season it well with taco spices, salt, and pepper. Once that’s ready, spread your tortilla chips on the griddle, layer them with your cooked meat, beans, and a variety of toppings like cheese, jalapeños, and sautéed vegetables.
When your cheese melts into a gooey perfection and all the toppings are hot, use a spatula to serve your nachos onto plates. With this method, your nachos will be evenly heated, perfectly crisp, and absolutely delicious.
Preparing Your Ingredients
To make the best loaded nachos on a Blackstone griddle, you need to choose the right ingredients, cook the beef perfectly, and add flavorful extras.
Choosing Your Chips and Toppings
Start with sturdy tortilla chips to hold the toppings and avoid sogginess. You can use store-bought or homemade chips. Look for options that can withstand the heat and support the weight of your toppings.
For toppings, gather shredded cheese, freshly diced onions and tomatoes, black beans, sliced jalapenos, and cilantro. Make sure your cheese is shredded finely, as it will melt quicker and more evenly. Don’t forget the extras like salsa, sour cream, and guacamole to add after cooking.
Cooking the Perfect Ground Beef
Preheat your Blackstone griddle over medium heat and spread a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. Add ground beef and cook thoroughly, breaking it into small pieces. Season with taco seasoning, salt, pepper, and other spices like garlic, cayenne pepper, cumin, and achiote molido.
Chop an onion and cook it with the beef until it’s soft and translucent. Once the beef is no longer pink, remove any excess grease. Allow the beef to cool slightly if you’re prepping ahead. You can store it in the fridge and reheat before assembling your nachos.
Mixing in Flavorful Add-Ins
Incorporate extras like black beans, diced tomatoes, and jalapenos. These toppings should be spread evenly across the chips before adding the cheese. It’s best to layer your ingredients to ensure each bite has a bit of everything.
Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over the top. Close the griddle lid to melt the cheese and heat the toppings. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Serve your nachos with side garnishes like salsa, sour cream, guacamole, and fresh cilantro. This balance of ingredients creates a rich and satisfying meal.
Assembling and Cooking Nachos on the Griddle
Creating loaded nachos on a Blackstone Griddle involves layering tortilla chips with seasoned meat, cheese, and toppings, and using the large cooking surface to achieve a perfect melt. Pay attention to detail for each step to ensure delicious results.
Layering for Ultimate Nachos
Start with a single layer of tortilla chips on the preheated griddle. Spread them out evenly to cover as much surface as possible. This allows for thorough cooking and prevents sogginess.
Add your seasoned beef or chicken, ensuring it’s broken into small pieces. Sprinkle Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese over the meat. For extra flavor, add dollops of refried beans.
Once these initial toppings are on, add a second layer of chips. Repeat the same process with meat and cheese. This creates a bubbly, cheesy texture throughout.
Mastering the Griddle Technique
Preheat the Blackstone Griddle to medium heat. Spread a small amount of oil to prevent the chips from sticking. Make sure the griddle reaches an even temperature before placing the nachos.
Cover the nachos with a large domed lid. This helps trap heat and melt the cheese, giving it a gooey consistency. Let the nachos cook for about 8-10 minutes, adjusting the time based on how crispy you like your chips.
Use the grease trap to manage any excess oil. Check occasionally to ensure the cheese melts evenly and the chips don’t burn.
Finishing Touches and Presentation
Once the cheese has melted and everything is heated through, carefully remove the nachos. Use a spatula to transfer servings onto plates or baskets.
Top the nachos with fresh shredded lettuce, pico de gallo, and sliced jalapeños. Add a drizzle of hot sauce for a kick. For more flavor and color, consider adding black olives, sour cream, and diced tomatoes as well.
Serve immediately while they’re hot and fresh. Enjoy this customizable appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion!
Cassie brings decades of experience to the Kitchen Community. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. Her new book "Healthy Eating Through the Garden" will be released shortly. When not writing or speaking about food and gardens Cassie can be found puttering around farmer's markets and greenhouses looking for the next great idea.
